The Central American Bushmaster - The Longest Pit Viper in the World

The Central American bushmaster (Lachesis stenophrys), is one of nature's most incredible examples of speed, power, and size in the world of snakes. This huge pit viper that is rarely seen can move quickly, and packs a huge dose of deadly venom. Though the Central American bushmaster is becoming increasingly rare due to the destruction of their habitat, they are still not protected.

Location and Habitat of the Central American Bushmaster

The Central American bushmaster is found throughout Central America in Costa Rica as well as in Northern South America in Lower Columbia and Ecuador. This powerful snake is found in the cool, moist habitats of the tropical forests throughout this range. The Central American bushmaster never strays very far from a source of water, and rarely, if ever leaves the forest areas.

Appearance of the Central American Bushmaster

The Central American bushmaster is the longest pit viper in the world. This snake grows up to 12 feet in length, and uses it's size quite well. It has a rounded, flat head with a level snout. The body is more flat than round, with the exception of a ridge of upturned scales that runs down the center of the snake's body. The Central American bushmaster is generally a light tan base color, and sports a pattern of diamond type shapes colored darker than the base throughout the length of the snake.

Prey Sources and Hunting Behavior of the Central American Bushmaster

The Central American bushmaster is an ambush predator that will sit and wait for the prey to happen by. Occasionally the bushmaster snake will go out and hunt using the heat sensing pits to track down their prey, but generally they will wait for dinner to come to them. The Central american bushmaster will prey on most any small mammal that they are able to swallow. They feed often on birds and various rodent species. This snake kills by injecting venom and then letting the prey crawl off to die. They will then follow the scent and eat the prey whole.

Reproduction Facts About the Central American Bushmaster